LIFT shares expert advice for aspiring flight attendants

National Flight Attendant Day, on 31 May, celebrates the dedicated professionals who keep passengers safe, calm, and cared for at 36,000 feet. In celebration of National Flight Attendant Day, LIFT’s Esmé Eloff, Cabin Designated Examiner, discusses the career choice and offers aspiring aviation crew insight into what it really takes to become cabin crew in South Africa.

While many people associate the role with travel and adventure, cabin crew are first and foremost highly trained safety professionals responsible for handling everything from medical emergencies and evacuations to onboard security situations.

Esmé Eloff, is the Cabin Designated Examiner (CDE) at LIFT, and is responsible for shaping confident, safety-focused aviation professionals. Eloff trains and assesses both pilots and cabin crew on every procedure and piece of equipment in the aircraft cabin, during normal operations and emergencies. She also has to ensure that all cabin crew meet the required safety, operational, and competency standards before they are licensed.

“It’s a big responsibility, but also a privilege, because I am able to help ensure that every crew member is fully prepared to protect lives and deliver excellence in the air,” Eloff says. She shares that she was inspired to pursue a career in aviation because she has a passion for travel, people, and adventure. “I’ve always loved the idea of connecting with others while exploring the world. I took a leap of faith, applied, completed my training, and discovered a career that challenges and inspires me every day,” she says.

According to Eloff, the role requires far more than a passion for flying.

“Many people think it’s just about travel and service, but the truth is it’s a safety-critical role. Behind every smile is a highly trained professional prepared for emergencies,” she says.

For those interested in pursuing a career as cabin crew in South Africa, the minimum requirements generally include a Grade 12 qualification, strong communication skills, good health, the ability to swim, and a clean criminal record.

“While previous customer service or hospitality experience can be beneficial, airlines also place significant emphasis on personality, adaptability, professionalism, and a willingness to learn,” she adds.

“Great cabin crew members are calm, caring, and confident. You need to be adaptable, a strong team player, and someone who can stay positive even in challenging moments,” she explains.

Once accepted into an airline training programme, aspiring cabin crew undergo intensive instruction covering safety procedures, emergency drills, firefighting, first aid, dangerous goods, customer service, and aircraft equipment training. Crew members are also trained to respond effectively to high-pressure situations including evacuations, decompression incidents, medical emergencies, and onboard security threats. “Training can be physically and mentally demanding, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. It builds confidence, resilience, and the ability to think clearly under pressure,” says Eloff.

Haydn Halim-Henning, Brand Manager at LIFT, says cabin crew play an essential role in shaping the passenger experience while maintaining the highest safety standards.

“At LIFT, our cabin crew are at the heart of every journey. They bring warmth, professionalism, and care to every flight, while carrying the immense responsibility of ensuring passenger safety at all times. National Flight Attendant Day is an opportunity to celebrate the people behind the uniforms and to inspire the next generation of aviation professionals who dream of taking to the skies. We’re grateful for our strong team members like Esmé, who prioritise safety and experience,” says Halim-Henning.

For aspiring cabin crew preparing for interviews, Eloff advises candidates to focus less on trying to impress, and more on demonstrating authenticity, professionalism, and problem-solving ability.

“Airlines are looking for people they can trust. Be warm, confident, adaptable, and show that you genuinely care about people. There is no perfect script, but there is a right mindset,” she says.

Beyond the excitement of travel, Eloff says the most rewarding part of the role is the impact cabin crew can have on passengers every day.

“Knowing you’ve made someone feel safe, comfortable, or cared for is incredibly fulfilling,” she says. “The best advice I can give to someone considering becoming a flight attendant is to go into interviews prepared, but also be ready to think on your feet. Airlines are not only looking for the “right” answers, but they are also looking for how you handle the unexpected.”

As the aviation industry continues to evolve, there are many career paths to consider, such as senior crew member, trainer, examiner, or management role.

“The amazing thing about the aviation industry is that it offers many opportunities for growth and diversification. ‘Flight Attendant’ remains a sought-after opportunity for South Africans looking for a dynamic, people-focused profession with opportunities for long-term growth within the aviation sector.”

About LIFT:
LIFT is operated by Global Aviation Operations (Pty) LTD trading as LIFT. LIFT is SA’s first fully flexible airline, offering hassle-free changes and cancellations, generous legroom, and complimentary vida e caffè coffee and snacks at no extra charge. LIFT’s goal is to make travel comfortable, convenient, and stress-free.

LIFT is constantly introducing solutions that focus on elevating the traveller experience. From its Premium option with generous legroom, to the safe and secure LIFT Wallet, offering quick refunds with no payment delay and allowing passengers to fly with small dogs in the cabin.

LIFT loves local! This is evident in partnerships and collabs with local brands like Vida, and Grumpy Snacks, and its well-loved in-flight surprises featuring local artists, most recently high tea with The Oyster Box. From silent discos, book launches and fashion shows to LIFT’s partnership with renowned South African singer, Zolani Mohola, LIFT enjoys nothing more than celebrating SA’s talent and success.

LIFT offers up to 28 daily flights, facilitated by their passionate, customer-obsessed team on the ground and in the air.

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